This is not written from the perspective of somebody who can’t understand the thoughts and emotions of a person being released from prison. I too have left those gates after serving years inside and experienced all those conflicting emotions that are thrown your way. One point I’d like to emphasise is … it gets easier.
The anxiety of being released into an ever-changing society can be daunting at any time. Whether you’ve spent weeks, months or years being locked up, to be thrust into society again is a huge adjustment. Children have grown up, technology has dramatically upgraded, and the world you once left is no more. It's time to mentally prepare for the new chapter in your life, the one you have envisaged since you begun your sentence.
During this time ensuring your physical health is paramount. Whereas in prison you’ve been restricted, you’re now free as a bird. Use your time wisely. It will help you in the long run, trust me! Everything you planned whilst in your cell is now there and ready for you to achieve. The career change you planned whist away is ready for you. The training you need to make that career change is just a phone call away. Dont be afraid to ask for help. There are lots of orginsations set up to help you at this time of your transition. Don't hesitiate in reaching out and utilising the support thats on offer. You're not alone. There are people who want to help and support you in making the change. They don't know how to reach you, but you can reach them. Help with writing a CV, help with finding the right training course, help with that great business idea you have; there is support for it all.
Keep that mindset you had pre-release – getting back on your feet, working, making a change. It’s important you focus on this and remember, 'Rome was not built in a day, but it was built nonetheless'. You're about to build our very own 'Rome'. It won't be built overnight, but with hard work and dedication you'll get there.
Chris Leslie, a Hardman Trustee and a former Hardman Award winner, has co-founded a prison leaver support organisation called ‘Inside Out Support Wales’ www.insideout.wales
